Property of The State

Property of the State is a compelling drama released in 2016, directed by Kit Ryan and penned by Susan Morrall. The film features stunning performances from a skillful cast that includes well-known talents like Elaine Cassidy, Patrick Gibson, and Aisling Loftus, with their portrayals adding profound depth to the narrative.

At the core of Property of the State is the story of Ann Marie O'Donnell (Elaine Cassidy), a young woman grappling with an immensely challenging family dynamic that ultimately compels her to make arduous choices. The film beautifully intertwines themes of mental illness, familial ties, responsibility, and the inevitable moral dilemmas associated with these issues.

Elaine Cassidy, in the lead role, delivers an extraordinary performance that brilliantly encapsulates the torment of a woman caught in the middle of familial bonds and societal pressures. Her portrayal of Ann Marie, a character often questioning whether to intervene in her brother's life against his wishes and the stark reality of what can happen if she does not, is deeply engrossing. Cassidy's nuanced and emotive performance illuminates the film's exploration of the complexities of family dynamics and personal responsibility.

Patrick Gibson plays the role of Brendan O'Donnell, Ann Marie's troubled brother whose deteriorating mental health generates significant stress within the family and community. Gibson's portrayal of Brendan is heart-wrenching and authentic, superbly capturing the agony of a young man grappling with mental instability. His depiction of a man losing his grip on reality forms a critical pillar to this harrowing and starkly realistic narrative.

Completing this talent ensemble is Aisling Loftus, who delivers a delicate and deeply impactful performance. Loftus perfectly captures the subtleties of her character, further adding to the movie's heavy emotional weight and further complicated dynamic.

Property of the State is rich in cinematographic technique with every shot crafted to augment the narrative's psychological exploration. The director, Kit Ryan, does not hold back in his portrayal of the harsh reality of mental illness and societal indifference. Shot primarily in Ireland, the movie’s dimly lit, bleak cinematography mirrors the heavy, somber tone of its story. The film evokes a sense of bleak vulnerability that becomes a canvas against which the characters' emotions are laid bare.

The screenplay, written by Susan Morrall, also deserves a special mention. Her compelling storytelling style beautifully balances narrative development and character exploration, keeping viewers engaged throughout. The dialogues are sharp and insightful, adding another layer of depth to this intense film.

The musical score underpins the film’s emotional heart, with its haunting melodies heightening the intensity of the story. The score further solidifies the overall somber atmosphere, accenting key scenes and echoing the narrative's tonal shifts.

Furthermore, Property of the State is more than just a chilling family drama. It serves as a damning indictment of a society that often overlooks the crippling effects of mental illness until it's too late. This feature is evident in the film's title, hinting at the complex relationship between an individual, their family, and the wider community or state. Through the eyes of Ann Marie, the story exposes the ramifications for those who try to navigate these systems while dealing with their personal turmoil.

Overall, Property of the State is an extraordinary piece of cinema that brings to light the complexities and challenges of dealing with mental health issues within a family dynamic. It is a poignant and thought-provoking film supported by powerful performances and a compelling narrative, making it a must-watch. The movie demonstrates the strength of cinema when it aligns with performative brilliance and narrative depth. It invites viewers to question societal norms and their responsibilities to their fellow human beings, cementing itself as an important contribution to the mental illness discourse in film.